Protecting Your Child’s Financial Well-Being Through Child Support
Children are always at the center when parents are going through a divorce. In addition to resolving matters of child custody and visitation, there are likely concerns about the amount of financial support needed to cover the costs of raising children. It is important to seek legal counsel from someone who will take the interests of both you and your children into account when it comes to support determinations.
At The Frost Firm, our attorney can address all potential issues that may arise when it comes to child support. Our goal is to ensure that your children are financially provided for. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can assist you.
Child Support Guidelines In Georgia
In most cases, child support amounts can be approximately determined by looking at child support guidelines in Georgia. These guidelines take a variety of factors into account to determine the amount of child support payments. The primary factor is, of course, the income of each parent. On occasion, other factors may come into play that can impact the amount.
Although these guidelines are relatively straightforward, deviations do occur. Our experienced family law lawyer can help identify any deviation and explain why the court may deviate from the expected amount and how this may impact your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions About Child Support In Georgia
Which parent is responsible for child support?
In Georgia, both parents are responsible for the financial support of their children. The amount of child support one parent pays to the other is determined by a variety of factors, including parental income and the balance of time each parent spends with the child (custodial responsibilities). Typically, the noncustodial parent (the parent who has the child for fewer overnight visits) pays child support to the custodial parent (the parent who has the child for more overnight visits).
Are child support and alimony the same thing?
No, child support and alimony are not the same. Child support is specifically intended to cover the expenses related to raising a child, such as food, clothing, education and health care. Alimony, on the other hand, is financial support paid to a spouse or former spouse following a divorce, aimed at maintaining a standard of living similar to that during the marriage.
How long do parents pay child support?
In Georgia, parents are generally required to pay child support until the child turns 18. However, if the child is still in high school at age 18, support continues until the child graduates from high school but not beyond the child’s 20th birthday. There are exceptions for children with special needs, which may extend the duration of support.
Are there restrictions on how a recipient can use child support?
Yes, child support is intended to cover the child’s basic needs and well-being. This includes expenses related to housing, food, clothing, education and health care. While the recipient has some discretion on how to allocate these funds, they are legally obligated to use the child support payments for the child’s benefit. That said, courts generally do not monitor or control how the other parent spends child support unless your child’s needs are not being met.
Contact Us For Legal Help With Support Payments
If you are requesting or being asked to make child support payments, we are here to help guide you through the process. You can schedule your consultation with our attorney by calling us directly at 678-212-1365 or by filling out our online contact form.
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